I've
been on board "Nordhavn" the ATW 40 for about six weeks and
now it's time for me to go. The departure is bittersweet as
the adventures and camaraderie I've experienced on this trip
have been incredible. But I miss seeing my wife, Linda. Enough
said.

I
was thrilled to be included on this adventure. Dave Harlow,
our captain - who was also the project manager on my Nordhavn
50, "Prime Time", was very supportive of my quest of to be
a crew member and helped it become a reality.

Probably
the best part of this trip was the fact that there wasn't
a fly in sight. No flies! That's something when you come from
the Seattle area. I suppose I can expand on that list of "bests"
- there are so many great experiences to be encountered out
here in the big blue Pacific. (Although "no flies" is a biggie!)

Beautiful
islands and atolls. Wonderful people. Sunrises and sunsets
that cannot be described. I especially enjoyed Phonpei where
we spent Christmas. To me, it is the perfect tropical island
with its large protected lagoons, crystal clear water and
corals covered with endless varieties of tropical fish. We
have enjoyed virtually all of our stops because we are a compatible
crew and sort of feed on each other's enthusiasm - which I
think is key to any successful cruise.

The
trip and performance of the boat itself have gone pretty much
as I expected. A good boat and a good crew. The heat and humidity
took a bigger toll on me than I anticipated but thank goodness
for the icemaker! The only difficult part was being away from
my wife for the holidays. Beyond that, it has been a fabulous
adventure. If Linda and I are lucky we might some day be able
to bring our own Nordhavn to these same places.

I
am disappointed to have to leave early, but the weather delays
have eaten up the actual time I allotted to be on board. I
wish my captain and fellow crewmembers the best of luck with
the rest of Leg 1 and the crews that follow, a safe voyage
and triumphant return back to Dana Point.